Wildlife Sanctuaries

The best way to tour Periyar wildlife sanctuary is from the edge of your seat on a boat. For a more adventurous alternative, climb onto a bamboo rafter and row while the wild watches you. Rolling slopes, mist-clad hills and an expanse of lush green is embellished by the presence of endangered species including White tigers. Sambar deers leap aplenty in groups in this sanctuary and Nilgiri Thars are often seen lazing through the grasslands. The ideal place for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this sanctuary is spread across 680 kilometers and is a repository of animal habitats. Look up at the high branches of the trees to spot a lion-tailed macaque or a Nilgiri Langur. The bountiful meadows have over 171 species of grass, many of them known for their medicinal qualities.

Situated on the Tamil Nadu border, the Rajamala- Udumalpet Road (SH 17) winds right through it, enabling travellers to view wildlife including elephants, sambar, gaur etc. Ph: 04865-2531587

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 450-750 m above sea level, is cradled by the Cheruthoni and Periyar Rivers. The tropical evergreen and deciduous trees add to the charm of the place. One can see elephants, bison, sambar deer. wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger and wild boar along with various species of snake including cobras, vipers, kraits and many non-poisonous snakes. There are many bird species as well, like the Grey Jungle Fowl. Malabar Grey Hornbill, woodpeckers, and bulbuls. The sanctuary lies adjacent to the world-famous Idukki Arch Dam.

A haven for exotic flora and fauna, 12,000 hectares of natural vegetation is spread across an undulating terrain interspersed with rushing brooks, flat meadows and gentle slopes. An ideal trekking destination, the 1868 m Agasthyamala Peak is its highest point. Ph: 0471-2360762, 2272182

This sanctuary, spread over 53 sq. km on the Western Ghats, is accessible from Vithurai. With its rich flora and fauna, Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations, is a great attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. For entry permits, contact: Wildlife Warden, Wildlife Division, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 0471-2360762

A part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, the sanctuary owes its name to the endemic species, Gluta Travancorica, locally known as 'Chenkurinnj". This sanctuary has been named after the tree. The sanctuary is acclaimed for its rich biodiversity. This is the only wildlife sanctuary in Kollam district set amidst luxurious greenery. Ph: 0475-2344600

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, nestled in evergreen forests, was discovered by the renowned ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali and is named after him. Ph: 0485-2588302

Bordering the Bandipur reserve forest of Karnataka, the Muthanga forest range is a part of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Sulthan Bathery. With common sightings of herds of elephants and other wild species, a trip to the Muthanga forests offer a unique experience in learning and recreation. Furthermore, as you take the bumpy motor road connecting Tholpetti and Thirunelly to explore the wild side of Wayanad, you are likely to spot an elephant or a deer. Tholpetty, situated on the border of Coorg and Wayanad, is home to many nocturnal birds as well.

Sprawled across 285 sq. km, the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare wild animals. Boating/cruising facilities are available at the Parambikulam Reservoir. Ph: 0491-2556393 www.parambikulam.org

From the viewing point, the scene is breathtaking with the rail bridge on the left and road bridge at a further distance, the Kadalundi river with birds soaring past the clear sky, occasionally picking up their prey from the water. Situated 20 kms from the Kozhikode city, the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary can be a disappointment if you are there at the wrong time. December to February is the ideal time to grab a binocular and make a visit to this estuary to view several species of migratory birds. Seagulls, bhraminy kites, sandpipers and herons are the commonly recorded birds. If you are lucky enough, you could spot the whimbrels.

This 55 sq. km sanctuary permits nature walks, soft trekking, bamboo rafting, coracle boating, and tree house stays at Pariputhodu and Bhoothamkallu. Ph: 0490-2413160

Located in the Varandarappilly Panchayat, Chimmini with its dense forests, a variety of birds and butterflies, and innumerable trekking trails, is a sanctuary that provides a heady experience for nature enthusiasts. The Forest Department organises trekking and bamboo rafting programmes in and around the sanctuary. But the best of all experiences is the Moonlight Sonata, which involves rafting on full moon nights. Ph: 0480-2766972